One hundred years ago today, the 19th Amendment granted U.S. citizens the right to vote, regardless of sex. We spoke to Melissa Kuhn, the winemaker of Equality Vines 19th Amendment Sauvignon Blanc.
Paying Tribute to Women's Equality with Winemaker Melissa Kuhn
by Mary Kong-DeVito
One hundred years ago today, the 19th Amendment granted U.S. citizens the right to vote, regardless of sex. We spoke to Melissa Kuhn of Taft Street Winery in Sonoma County, the winemaker of Equality Vines 19th Amendment Russian River Sauvignon Blanc. We wanted to hear what inspired her to create this tribute to the Suffragettes who never gave up the fight to win women the right to vote.
Q: It’s the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment. What does this day personally mean to you?
A: So many strong women worked hard for me to have the ability to vote. This is not something I take lightly. To honor this effort and all American women, I vote in every election.
Q: As a single vineyard, Russian River Sauvignon Blanc, how do you feel the 19th Amendment Sauvignon Blanc expresses this powerful tribute?
A: The 2019 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc is vivacious and lively, just like many of the first women’s rights activists.
Q: What do you want people to think about when they enjoy this wine?
A: While sipping on this crisp, refreshing wine, I would like to invite you to think about collaboration and unity in fighting for something you believe in.
Q: Are there women in the wine industry that you find particularly inspiring or helped you in your career?
A: I am very fortunate that there have been numerous female winemakers in Sonoma County that have paved the path for me. Merry Edwards of Merry Edwards Winery in Sonoma County, California wine pioneer Zelma Long, and the “Queen of Zin” Carol Shelton of Carol Shelton Wines, to name a few.